An area that precedes the start character of a bar code and follows the stop character. This area should contain no dark marks and should be 10 times the size of the narrowest bar code symbol's bar or 0.25 inch wide, whichever is greater. Also known as quiet zone.
A clear space, containing no printed material, which precedes the start character of a bar code and follows the stop character of a bar code. (Also called "Quiet Zone.") Plain, clear space/quiet zone must be a minimum of 3/8" for proper reads.